Simon Barnett’s beloved wife Jodi dies after battle with brain cancer

Simon Barnett’s beloved wife Jodi has died.

Jodi passed away peacefully at the couple’s Christchurch home early on Monday with the broadcaster and family at her side – following a five-and-a-half-year battle with brain cancer.

In a statement the family said "we are absolutely heartbroken that our beautiful wife and mother, Jodi, passed away in the early hours of Monday morning."

Photo: nowtolove.co.nz

"We are completely broken but trust she is now walking and talking freely with our heavenly Dad.

"Words cannot adequately convey how deeply loved she was by us, and all who knew her."

Mike Hosking tearfully announced the news on Newstalk ZB this morning.

“Obviously for us it’s a very sad day and all our love and all our thoughts and all our prayers.”

Jodi and Simon have been married 32 years and have four daughters and three grandchildren.

Photo: nowtolove.co.nz

Jodi had undergone four brain surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation treatment since April 2018, when she suffered a seizure out of the blue at the couple’s home.

Her fourth and most recent surgery was in January.

In an interview with the NZ Herald, published just three days ago, Barnett described Jodi as his “perfect soulmate” and “greatest cheerleader” who had defied odds all the way.

But he also revealed that doctors had given Jodi just weeks to live: “Things are grim now.”

Barnett said the best moments of his life were when he was with Jodi and their four daughters, Samantha, Sophie, Bella and Lily, who are all now in their 20s.

Jodi, he said, was the very embodiment of “kindness and selflessness”.